Device for reducing tinnitus potential

Abstract

The potential to develop disturbing tinnitus may result from repeated unprotected exposure to loud sounds such as rock concerts, machinery, automobile traffic, and crowds at sporting events. Older adults, especially above the age of 50, may be more susceptible to tinnitus resulting from pathologic conditions in the inner ear apparatus. The present device is designed to electronically reduce stressed hearing during the auditory insult and to return to normal function when the insult is removed. No manual adjustment by the user is necessary between these phases. This device is miniaturized to allow wearing it in the outer ear canal during periods of sound excesses and removal at other times. Unlike prior auditory aids, this one acts to block loud noises without the need to remember to place or activate auxiliary devices such as ear plugs to protect against or compete with potentially destructive external factors each time an insult is encountered.

Claims

1. A novel device, able to dampen transmission of loud external sounds to the auditory system but capable to conduct unaltered normal sounds when placed in the outer ear canal, comprising a) an inert cylinder with a central hole; b) a movable piston filling the central hole; c) a sound sensor; d) a battery for the electromagnet; e) an electromagnet formed by wires wound about the central piston which is activated by the sound sensor; f) a spring to lift the central piston when the electromagnet is not activated via reception of loud sounds by the sound sensor; and) a ferrous or ferric disk fixed at the bottom of the piston well, containing multiple air-passing holes centrally, to attract the piston when the electromagnet is activated, thereby closing the central hole to sound transmission.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

(1) Tinnitus is a condition which affects many people. Once established, it is usually impossible to eliminate completely in most cases. If attacks of the buzzing or whistling sound characteristic of tinnitus can be minimized early in the course of the problem, it is conceivable that the intensity and frequency of such events can be held low. The therapeutic key in many cases is reducing the exposure to loud noises before permanent damage to the hair cells of the cochlea results. Ear plugs or muffling headphones are commonly used for this purpose. However, users often forget to insert them before such exposure, thereby defeating the purpose of this approach. The intent in the present invention is to have this potential in place prior to an episode of need.

(2) The basic design of the present invention is a cylindrical plastic ear device with an open sound passageway except when loud noises occur in its vicinity. The sound sensor of the posterior (external) end induces its battery-operated electromagnet to function as a mechanical solenoid, whereby the inner plunger descends and is attracted to the ferrous ring in the bottom (internal) end of the plug, thereby closing the sound channel. After the noise dissipates, the electromagnet shuts down and the spring in the bottom of the shaft forces the plunger upward, into the open position.

(3) There is no need to remove the device immediately unless there is certainty that no more noisy events will occur in the vicinity. During a music concert or a noisy work activity, the device should remain in the ear canal. A small amount of inert lubricating jelly on the internal end, aids insertion.

(4) The cylindrical-shaped device is commonly 0.2-0.8 centimeter in diameter and 1.2-5.0 centimeters in length based on the anticipated size of potential users. The body of the device can be prepared from firm workable material to which human tissue is unreactive. Larger and smaller dimensions are practicable as well, depending on the user's canal size. If needed, the circular, flat battery is replaceable once the sound sensor is removed. The voltage of the battery is determined by the size of the device and the level of energy needed to effect electromagnet motion of the internal plunger. An appropriate alternative to this would be an external handle which could be used to move the plunger, but this would eliminate the automatic feature of the device described above. Practitioners proficient in the art are able to employ variations of design, material, and size to achieve the desired benefit.

Advantages of the Device

(5) 1) Able to be retained in outer ear canal or by an external ear clip. 2) Meant to prevent tinnitus or to keep it from getting worse. 3) No effect on hearing normal sound levels. 4) May be worn for extensive periods. 5) Small and barely noticeablesuitable for young adults and workers in heavy industries. 6) Eliminates anticipating need to apply timely in special situations.

(6) FIG. 1; Device 1) Fixed sonic sensor with on/off switch. 2) Disc battery. 3) Air holes 4) Wire coiled around the solid movable stem to form an electromagnetic solenoid placed within the cavity of the device. 5) Solid exterior sidewall of the cylindrical device. 6) Non-magnetic spring. 7) Centrally porous fixed ferrous/ferric disc.

(7) FIG. 2: Device inserted in outer ear canal.